Parades, a moment of silence and wreath laying are just a few ways Scouts and Scouters will honor those who served and are serving in U.S. armed forces on Nov. 11.
A federal holiday since 1918, Veterans Day was originally named Armistice Day and marks the end of World War I. The armistice with Germany went into effect at the 11th hour on the 11th day of the 11th month, which is when those who honor veterans will stop for a moment of silence. Armistice Day was renamed to Veterans Day in 1954.
Scouting’s longstanding relationship with the military is why thousands of packs, troops, teams and crews across the country have been and will be taking time to recognize veterans in their communities all week. Here are 11 ways to help Scouts honor veterans on Veterans Day — and comments from veterans and a military student about why they’re important.
1. Record a veteran’s story
The Library of Congress Veterans History Project features interviews with veterans about their experiences in the military. Established by Congress 26 years ago, these stories preserve our military history.
Jeff Johnson, a retired U.S. Navy officer and Scout executive with the Cornhusker Council, learned details about his uncle’s service after listening to a Library of Congress recording. Johnson’s uncle was a Fleet Marine Force Navy corpsman in the Pacific Theater during World War II. The Pacific campaign included some of the war’s bloodiest battles. Johnson’s uncle — and his uncle’s children — rarely talked about it. This Nebraska Scout conducted an interview just a few months before Johnson’s uncle died.
“It gave our family a priceless gift,” Johnson says. “This recording not only honored his service, sacrifice and personal experiences, but our family was able to learn more about this great man. By preserving veterans’ memories for future generations, we ensure their contributions are never forgotten and help others better understand the realities of military service. It is a lasting tribute that gives veterans a voice and preserves their legacy for generations to come.”
2. Say thank you
Encourage Scouts to thank a veteran for their service and mean it. Whether it’s a family member, neighbor, teacher or someone you meet in your community, a sincere thank-you can go a long way.
Eagle Scout Joseph Roush, a senior at The Citadel in South Carolina, sees it this way: If veterans hadn’t given up part of their freedom, the rest of us wouldn’t be able to enjoy ours.
“Thanking a veteran for their service and meaning it is a great way to honor them because it is personal,” he says. “When you thank a veteran for their service, you’re not thanking them for some vague idea of service or for putting on a uniform. You’re acknowledging the sacrifice and hardships that they personally suffered in the name of your freedom.”
3. Volunteer
VA hospitals and veterans organizations operate with help from volunteers. Contact somebody in charge and let that person know you and your Scouts are willing to help with activities or simply be there for friendly conversation.
Michael (Mike) Snell, retired Army Major, field artillery, says there are several ways to help.
“Something as simple as pushing a wheelchair helps a disabled veteran who might struggle to get into or around the hospital, and it may preserve what little strength they have,” he says. “It could also give Scouts the opportunity to connect with a veteran who may not have a lot of interaction with others. These moments can help Scouts gain much better insights into the sacrifices of our service members and a deeper appreciation of their commitments — and how both service members and Scouts apply and live the points of the Scout Oath and Scout Law.”
4. Support veteran-owned businesses
Look for businesses owned by veterans in your community and support them, says retired Air Force Nurse Corps Lt. Col. Renee Greer.
“Supporting a veteran-owned business is an easy way to honor veterans,” she says. “This can be done on a regular basis, not just on Veterans Day. Ask the veteran about their service and really listen to their story with respect.”
5. Attend a Veterans Day parade
Cheer on veterans as they march. Show your community that their service and sacrifices are appreciated.
“We send a large Scouting contingent every year to the Veterans Day Parade in Lincoln, Nebraska,” Johnson says. “Marching in the parade is a meaningful way for Scouts to show appreciation for the men and women who have served our country. By gathering as a community to recognize veterans, we honor their courage, sacrifice, and dedication while teaching younger generations the importance of patriotism, gratitude, and service.”
6. Visit a veterans cemetery or memorial
Take time to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who served, and consider placing flowers or a small U.S. flag at a gravesite.
7. Do a Good Turn for a veteran
Mow a veteran’s lawn, or prepare a meal for a veteran’s family. A simple act of service can make a big difference in a veteran’s day. It’salso a meaningful way to put the Scout Oath and Law into action.
8. Fly the U.S. flag properly
Teach Scouts the rules of flag etiquette, including how to display, handle and care for our nation’s flag with respect. This Scout Life article can help.
“Flying the flag properly is a simple and visible way to show respect to all who have served, living and dead,” Roush says. “To the people that fought for that flag and what it represents, there is no greater honor than to see it flies proudly above the nation they fought to defend. Raising and lowering the flag every day, no matter the weather nor circumstance, is an excellent way to instill the regimented patriotism that drove the men and women who served onward amidst the harshest of conditions.”
9. Join the color guard
Be a part of a Scout color guard at school or at a Veterans Day event. Help Scouts practice your flag ceremony, and remind them that representing our country is both an honor and a responsibility.
“Participating in a flag ceremony on Veterans Day is a great, easy and low-cost way to honor those who have served our country,” Greer says. “This also puts into action the Scout Oath by doing your ‘duty to country.’ Remember to wear your uniform properly and proudly execute the commands with precision, not in a casual manner.”
10. Retire worn flags respectfully
Work with your Scouts to organize a proper flag-retirement ceremony, and teach others why the U.S. flag deserves our respect. This On Scouting article details some retirement and disposal options.
11. Observe a moment of silence
Go silent at 11 a.m. on November 11.
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